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Who Knew? A Neural Circuit Just for Itching

Itch-inducing agents activate a discrete population of peripheral sensory neurons that produce a signaling molecule called natriuretic polypeptide b (Nppb). The release of Nppb from these primary pruriceptive neurons triggers a dedicated itch biocircuit to generate the sensation of itch. [Images courtesy of Mark Hoon, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, NIH]

The occasional itch—be it a bug bite or rash—is annoying. But there are millions of people with chronic itching conditions, like eczema and psoriasis, who are constantly scratching their skin. This is more than a little irritation—it drastically reduces their quality of life and is a perpetual distraction. Current anti-itch treatments include topical corticosteroid creams, oral antihistamines, and various lotions. But researchers at NIH have gone beyond the skin’s surface and discovered a critical molecule at the root of that itchy feeling [1].

Until now, it’s been unclear how the sensation of itching was carried to the brain. Was this a separate system, or did it use the same nerve pathways as pain, touch, or temperature? To find out, the researchers focused on a special group of nerve cells called “TRPV1 neurons,” which extend to the skin and detect temperature, various types of pain, and itch. These neurons use several chemicals to transmit signals; one of those is a neurotransmitter called Nppb. When the researchers created mice lacking Nppb, the mice became immune to itching. Even when the researchers exposed the mice to several itchy substances, such as histamine, the mice refused to scratch!

When the researchers actually removed specific spinal cord nerves that receive the Nppb itch signals, other sensations—like pain, touch, and temperature—remained intact. So we now know that in mice, and possibly in humans, there are specific nerve cells and brain circuitry that are entirely devoted to that itchy feeling. That means blocking Nppb could turn out to be a safe and effective strategy to cure itching, especially in chronic cases.

31 thoughts on “Who Knew? A Neural Circuit Just for Itching”

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In our experiments on laboratory mice we could block itch by simple chemical interventions. The key molecule that we discovered in our work, Nppb, also has a major role in controlling blood pressure. Thus although it is tempting to speculate that blocking it would alleviate itch, it might have side-effect that are dangerous. Therefore we think this is the beginning of seeing if Nppb or other molecules will be safe and effective for treating chronic itch in people.

Getting rid of the itch is great. Patients with CTCL (cutneous t-cell lymphoma) with severe itching can also have redness, rash, plaques, flaking, etc.. If the itch was stopped, would the inflammation also be stopped in ctcl patients?

I will have eczema all my life until the day I die. I will do anything to stop the itch, if it works great! That will mean no more creams etc. no more coal tar! To live a day, a minute without itching means for me that I can have a real life again! Until then, I will keep hope in my heart, and mind, and prayer too.

I was diagnosed with eczema when I was a young child and it’s a pain to live with. However, I noticed when I visited hot countries like India or America, the itching isn’t as bad and no eczema flare ups. I came back to the UK and started taking vitamin D3, as I assumed I may be lacking vitamin D due to the UK’s weather climate. I have found it to work after a month or so — I still itch occasionally, but not as much … This research does sound interesting …

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About the NIH Director

Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph.D., was appointed the 16th Director of NIH by President Barack Obama and confirmed by the Senate. He was sworn in on August 17, 2009. On June 6, 2017, President Donald Trump announced his selection of Dr. Collins to continue to serve as the NIH Director.